Finding the best real estate lawyer can be a difficult and potentially expensive process, but these tips will help you make an informed decision.
1. Experience
Due consideration must be given to the experience required for fulfilling your particular legal needs. For example, if your spouse is divorcing you and already has a lawyer then it may not make sense to hire someone with more than 20 years of experience at $350 per hour just so he or she can tackle one issue on your behalf. On the other hand, if you are purchasing your dream home and are financing it then a real estate lawyer with extensive experience in mortgage closings may be exactly what you need to make sure your rights as a buyer are being protected.
2. Pricing
An affordable but quality lawyer that has experience in real estate transactions is a worthy choice for most homeowners. When looking at the rates charged by attorneys, look at particular types of services they offer and call around to determine what is normal and customary for their area. Consult with a lawyer that charges $100 per hour or less to ensure you are getting value for your money.
3. Knowledge of Real Estate Laws
The real estate and mortgage industry is constantly changing and new laws are being passed all the time. As you evaluate your attorney’s knowledge, make sure that he or she is aware of these laws. Make sure to specifically ask about their training and education in this area.
4. License to Practice Real Estate Law in Another State
Many states allow a lawyer who has a real estate practice license in another state to practice law in that state by making an agreement with the other state’s Attorney General to allow reciprocal practice privileges. If this is not the case, then you might want to discuss your options with a lawyer who has a license in the state you are considering to practice in.
5. Personal Relationship with Your Lawyer
A good relationship with the attorney means that he or she will be better able to get to the heart of what you want, understand your goals and needs, and ultimately be able to put their experience and knowledge of real estate laws to work for you.
Conclusion
If you have any questions regarding this article or other real estate related legal issues, feel free to contact experienced attorneys at stonesalluslaw.com. Their skilled legal counsel will help you make an informed decision.